Part Three: Chapters 99-100 Summary

July stays with Clara and the girls. In the new year, he actually screws up his courage to propose to her, and she asks him if she's put enough cinnamon in a recipe. July doesn't get it. Clara holds out her finger, daring him to taste, and he does by taking as much off her finger with his as he can. Discouraged, she turns away after licking the rest off her finger herself. She keeps leaving the door open for something more intimate, but July just doesn't get it. It is three days before he has the chance to talk to her alone again. Martin has developed a cough and high fever, and Cholo is sent to get the doctor. Clara sits, rocking the cradle he's in. July came in after working the day and is uncertain...